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A1 noun #4,000 más común 9 min de lectura

発明

hatsumei Top 4,000

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos 発明 en 30 segundos

Explicación 発明 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn 'hatsumei' as a basic noun and verb to talk about famous historical figures and their creations. You don't need to worry about complex legal or technical nuances. Focus on the simple structure: '[Person] wa [Object] o hatsumei shimashita' (Person invented Object). This is a great way to practice the 'suru' verb conjugation and the use of the object particle 'o'. You might encounter this word when talking about the history of Japan or famous people like Thomas Edison. Think of it as a 'power word' that helps you describe important things that people made. Even at this early stage, try to distinguish it from 'tsukuru' (to make). While you can 'tsukuru' dinner, you only 'hatsumei' something that is brand new to the world. Using 'hatsumei' correctly will make your basic Japanese sound more impressive and accurate. Remember the kanji for 'bright' (mei) is part of it, which might help you remember that an invention is a 'bright idea' that has been brought to life.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'hatsumei' in more varied sentence structures, including the passive voice 'hatsumei sareta' (was invented). This is very useful for describing objects around you. For example, 'Kore wa itsu hatsumei sareta no desu ka?' (When was this invented?). You should also learn common compound words like 'hatsumei-ka' (inventor). At this level, you are expected to handle simple descriptions of technology and history. You might also use 'hatsumei' to talk about your own creative ideas in a classroom setting. Practice using it with time markers like '19-seiki ni' (in the 19th century) or 'zutto mae ni' (a long time ago). You are also beginning to see the difference between 'hatsumei' and 'kaihatsu' (development), though 'hatsumei' remains your primary word for 'invention'. Pay attention to how it appears in short reading passages about Japanese culture, such as the invention of instant ramen or the karaoke machine.

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By the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'hatsumei' in both formal and informal contexts. You should understand its role in more complex grammar, such as using it as a noun modifier: 'hatsumei shita hito' (the person who invented it). You can also start using it in discussions about the impact of technology on society. For example, 'Hatsumei wa seikatsu o benri ni shimasu' (Inventions make life convenient). At this stage, you should be very clear on the distinction between 'hatsumei' and 'hakken' (discovery) and be able to explain the difference if asked. You will encounter this word in news articles and more advanced textbooks. You should also be familiar with the 'shokumu hatsumei' (employee invention) concept if you are interested in business Japanese. Your vocabulary should expand to include related terms like 'tokkyo' (patent) and 'gijutsu' (technology). Being able to discuss the 'pros and cons' of certain inventions is a key skill at this level.

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At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'hatsumei' with precision in academic or professional discussions. You should be able to discuss the ethical implications of certain inventions, such as AI or genetic engineering. You will use the word in complex sentences involving subordinating conjunctions and conditional forms. For example, 'Moshi kono gijutsu ga hatsumei sarenakattara...' (If this technology hadn't been invented...). You should also understand the cultural significance of 'hatsumei' in Japan, including the history of the industrial revolution and the 'Monozukuri' spirit. You can read and summarize articles about intellectual property and patent disputes. Your use of the word should reflect an understanding of its weight in a legal and technical context. You might also explore the use of 'hatsumei' in literature or historical critiques, where the 'act of invention' is analyzed as a social phenomenon.

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At the C1 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 'hatsumei' and its synonyms. You can use it in high-level debates about innovation, sustainability, and the future of humanity. You should be able to distinguish between 'hatsumei' and more obscure terms like 'kouan' (devise) or 'shinan' (utility model) in a legal or technical document. You can write detailed essays on the history of Japanese innovation, using 'hatsumei' as a central theme. Your speaking should be fluid, allowing you to discuss complex topics like 'the invention of tradition' (dentou no hatsumei) in a sociological context. You understand the metaphorical uses of the word and can identify it in sophisticated wordplay or irony. You are also capable of understanding the nuances of 'hatsumei' in classical or early modern Japanese texts, where the characters might have been used slightly differently.

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At the C2 level, your mastery of 'hatsumei' is near-native. You can use it in any context, from a casual joke to a doctoral thesis on patent law. You understand the deepest etymological roots of the word and its evolution through the Meiji era as Japan modernized. You can engage in professional-level negotiations involving 'hatsumei-ken' (invention rights) and intellectual property strategy. Your ability to use the word includes an awareness of its socio-political implications—how 'invention' is defined by the state and the market. You can critique the concept of 'hatsumei' itself, perhaps discussing how the digital age is blurring the line between invention and collaboration. You are also comfortable with the most formal registers of the word used in imperial decrees or high-court rulings. At this level, 'hatsumei' is not just a word you know, but a concept you can manipulate and analyze with complete linguistic freedom.

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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

発明 en 30 segundos

Hatsumei means 'invention' and is used for man-made technical breakthroughs.
It is a 'suru' verb, meaning you add 'suru' to make it 'to invent'.
Do not confuse it with 'hakken' (discovery), which is for finding existing things.
It is common in history, science, and business contexts in Japan.

The Japanese word 発明 (hatsumei) is a cornerstone of vocabulary for anyone discussing technology, history, or creativity. At its core, it refers to the act of bringing something into existence that did not previously exist through human ingenuity and design. Unlike a discovery, which involves finding something already present in nature, an invention is a synthesized creation. In the Japanese language, this distinction is strictly maintained. The word is composed of two kanji characters: 発 (hatsu), meaning to emit, start, or open, and 明 (mei), meaning bright or clear. Together, they suggest the 'bringing to light' of a new idea or mechanism. This word is most frequently encountered in educational contexts, such as learning about Thomas Edison or the industrial revolution, but it is also used daily in business to discuss intellectual property and patents.

Noun Form: As a noun, 'hatsumei' stands alone to mean 'an invention' or 'the act of invention'. For example, 'Great invention' is 'Sugoi hatsumei'.

Verb Form: By adding the auxiliary verb 'suru', it becomes 'hatsumei suru', meaning 'to invent'. This is a transitive verb that takes the object marker 'o'.

エジソンは電球を発明しました。(Edison invented the lightbulb.)

Historically, Japan takes great pride in its 'hatsumei'. From the automatic loom by Sakichi Toyoda to the modern blue LED, the word carries a connotation of national progress and meticulous craftsmanship (monozukuri). When you hear this word in a conversation, it often implies a sense of awe or high regard for the complexity of the object being discussed. It is not used for simple creative acts like writing a poem or painting a picture; for those, words like 'sousaku' (creation) are preferred. 'Hatsumei' is strictly for the realm of tools, systems, methods, and technological breakthroughs. In a business setting, 'hatsumei-sha' refers to the inventor, a title that holds significant legal weight regarding patent rights. Therefore, understanding 'hatsumei' is not just about learning a word, but about understanding a culture that values technological advancement and systematic innovation.

これは世紀の発明だ。(This is the invention of the century.)

Common Context: Science museums, patent offices, and history documentaries are the most common places to find this term used repeatedly.

新しい技術を発明する。(To invent a new technology.)

彼の発明は世界を変えた。(His invention changed the world.)

インスタントラーメンは日本の発明です。(Instant ramen is a Japanese invention.)

To wrap up, 'hatsumei' is a high-register word that implies technical skill and originality. Whether you are discussing the wheel or a futuristic AI algorithm, this word serves as the definitive label for human-made breakthroughs. It is a vital part of the vocabulary for anyone interested in the intersection of Japanese culture and global innovation.

Using 発明 (hatsumei) correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical versatility. As a 'suru' verb, it follows the standard conjugation rules for Irregular Verbs (Group 3). This means you can say 'hatsumei suru' (present/future), 'hatsumei shita' (past), and 'hatsumei shinai' (negative). When describing who invented what, the particle は (wa) or が (ga) identifies the inventor, while を (o) identifies the invention itself. If you want to use the passive voice—which is very common in scientific writing—you would say 発明された (hatsumei sareta), meaning 'was invented'. For example, 'The telephone was invented by Bell' translates to 'Denwa wa Beru ni yotte hatsumei sareta'.

Active Voice: Focuses on the person: 'Kare wa atarashii kikai o hatsumei shita' (He invented a new machine).

誰がそれを発明したのですか？(Who invented that?)

Passive Voice: Focuses on the object: 'Kore wa 100-nen mae ni hatsumei sareta' (This was invented 100 years ago).

蒸気機関はワットによって発明された。(The steam engine was invented by Watt.)

Another important usage is the noun-modifying form. You can use 'hatsumei' to describe other nouns by using the particle の (no) or by combining it into a compound word. For instance, 'hatsumei-ka' (発明家) means 'inventor', where 'ka' is a suffix for a specialist. Similarly, 'hatsumei-hin' (発明品) means 'an invented product' or 'an invention'. These compounds are extremely common in academic and journalistic Japanese. When you are describing the quality of an invention, you might use adjectives like 'subarashii' (wonderful) or 'kakushinteki-na' (innovative) before the word 'hatsumei'.

画期的な発明が期待されている。(A groundbreaking invention is expected.)

Compound Nouns: 'Hatsumei-ken' (Patent rights/Invention rights) and 'Hatsumei-sha' (Inventor).

彼は多くの発明品を世に送り出した。(He released many inventions to the world.)

それは偶然の発明だった。(That was an accidental invention.)

特許庁に発明を登録する。(To register an invention with the Patent Office.)

In summary, 'hatsumei' is quite flexible. Whether it's the subject of a sentence, the object of an action, or a modifier for another noun, it maintains its core meaning of technical creation. Pay attention to the particles and the 'suru' ending to ensure your sentences are grammatically sound and contextually appropriate.

In Japan, 発明 (hatsumei) is a word that resonates with the country's identity as a global leader in technology. You will hear it most frequently in educational and professional settings. In schools, 'hatsumei' is a common topic in science and history classes. Children are taught about the 'Three Great Inventions of the World' (Sekai Sandai Hatsumei): the compass, gunpowder, and the printing press. This establishes 'hatsumei' as a word associated with world-altering change from a young age. On television, documentaries like 'Project X' or 'The Professionals' often feature engineers working tirelessly to 'hatsumei' a new component or system, emphasizing the emotional and physical labor involved in the process.

News & Media: Headlines often use 'hatsumei' when a university research team or a tech giant like Sony or Toyota announces a breakthrough.

最新の発明に関するニュース。(News regarding the latest invention.)

In the business world, particularly in the R&D (Research and Development) departments, 'hatsumei' is used in a very literal and legal sense. Discussions about 'shokumu hatsumei' (employee inventions) are common, referring to inventions made by employees during their work hours. This involves legal contracts and compensation, showing that 'hatsumei' is not just a creative concept but a financial and legal one. If you visit a place like the 'Cup Noodles Museum' in Yokohama, you will see the word 'hatsumei' everywhere, as the museum celebrates Momofuku Ando's invention of instant ramen. It is used here to inspire creativity and perseverance in visitors.

この発明は特許を取得した。(This invention obtained a patent.)

Daily Conversation: While less common in casual talk, people might use it jokingly when someone comes up with a clever life hack.

それはいい発明だね！(That's a good invention/idea!)

未来の発明家たち。(Future inventors.)

日本は多くの発明で知られている。(Japan is known for many inventions.)

Ultimately, 'hatsumei' is a word that signifies progress, intelligence, and the human spirit's desire to improve the world. Whether it's in a textbook, a patent application, or a museum exhibit, the word carries a weight of importance and respect for innovation.

The most frequent mistake learners make with 発明 (hatsumei) is confusing it with 発見 (hakken), which means 'discovery'. While they are related, they are not interchangeable. 'Hatsumei' is for something man-made and new to the world (like a computer), whereas 'hakken' is for something that already existed but was previously unknown (like a new species of animal or a historical site). Saying 'I invented a new star' using 'hatsumei' would sound very strange in Japanese, as if you literally built the star in a workshop. Instead, you should use 'hakken'.

Hatsumei vs. Hakken: Hatsumei = Invention (Creation). Hakken = Discovery (Finding).

❌ ニュートンは重力を発明した。(Newton invented gravity.)

✅ ニュートンは重力を発見した。(Newton discovered gravity.)

Another mistake involves the register of the word. 'Hatsumei' is a fairly formal and technical term. Using it for very trivial or artistic things can sometimes sound unnatural. For example, if you create a new recipe, you might say 'atarashii ryouri o kangaeta' (I thought of a new dish) rather than 'ryouri o hatsumei shita', unless the recipe involves a completely new scientific cooking method. Similarly, artists 'create' (sousaku suru) or 'produce' (seisaku suru) works of art; they don't 'invent' them in the 'hatsumei' sense. Using 'hatsumei' for a painting would imply the painting is a mechanical device.

❌ 彼は新しい歌を発明した。(He invented a new song.)

Grammar Trap: Mistaking 'hatsumei' for a regular verb. It is a noun that needs 'suru'.

❌ 彼は機械を発明る。(Incorrect verb ending.)

✅ 彼は機械を発明する。(Correct 'suru' verb form.)

Lastly, be careful with the passive voice. While 'hatsumei sareta' is correct, learners often forget to use the particle 'ni' or 'ni yotte' to indicate the inventor. Ensuring the correct particle usage will make your Japanese sound much more natural and precise.

While 発明 (hatsumei) is the go-to word for invention, several other words share a similar space but have distinct nuances. Understanding these will help you choose the most precise term for your context. 発見 (hakken) is the most common alternative, but as discussed, it means 'discovery'. 開発 (kaihatsu) is another frequent term, meaning 'development'. While an invention is a single new idea, development often refers to the long-term process of improving or creating something large-scale, like software or a residential area.

Hatsumei vs. Kaihatsu: Hatsumei: The initial creative breakthrough. Kaihatsu: The systematic development of a product or system.

新しいソフトを開発する。(To develop new software.)

Other words include 考案 (kouan), which means 'devise' or 'design' a plan or a small idea. It's often used for smaller practical improvements rather than world-changing inventions. 創造 (souzou) means 'creation' in a more abstract or artistic sense, often used when talking about God creating the world or an artist creating a masterpiece. 制作 (seisaku) is specifically for the production of media like films, TV shows, or artworks. Finally, 新案 (shinan) is a technical term often found in 'utility models' (jitsuyou shinan), which are like 'mini-patents' for small functional improvements to existing products.

画期的なアイデアを考案する。(To devise a groundbreaking idea.)

Register Comparison: Hatsumei (Formal/Technical), Kouan (Practical/Business), Souzou (Artistic/Abstract).

世界を創造する。(To create the world.)

アニメを制作する。(To produce an anime.)

実用新案を登録する。(To register a utility model.)

Choosing the right word depends on whether you are talking about a physical machine (hatsumei), a large system (kaihatsu), a clever idea (kouan), or a work of art (souzou/seisaku). By mastering these distinctions, you will speak Japanese with much greater precision and sophistication.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

During the Meiji restoration, 'hatsumei' was chosen as the standard translation for the English word 'invention' as Japan rushed to modernize its legal and scientific systems.

Guía de pronunciación

UK hatsɯmeː

US hatsʊmeɪ

Flat pitch (Heiban) in standard Japanese, meaning the pitch stays relatively level after the first syllable.

Rima con

unmei (destiny) seimei (life) shoumei (proof) renmei (federation) kanmei (impression) enmei (prolonging life) tanmei (short life) kenmei (wise)

Errores comunes

Pronouncing 'tsu' as two separate sounds 't-su'.
Extending the 'mei' too long like 'meeeee'.
Confusing the pitch with 'hatsumei' (which doesn't have a common homophone, but 'hatsu' alone has many).
Adding a small 'tsu' (sokuon) where it doesn't belong.
Misreading the kanji 'mei' as 'akari'.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 2/5

The kanji are common (N4-N3 level), but the concept is introduced early.

Escritura 3/5

Writing 'hatsu' (発) can be tricky for beginners due to the stroke order.

Expresión oral 1/5

Easy to pronounce with no difficult sounds.

Escucha 1/5

Very distinct sound, rarely confused with other words.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

作る (tsukuru) 新しい (atarashii) 人 (hito) 機械 (kikai) 電気 (denki)

Aprende después

発見 (hakken) 開発 (kaihatsu) 特許 (tokkyo) 技術 (gijutsu) 科学 (kagaku)

Avanzado

知的財産 (chiteki zaisan) 実用新案 (jitsuyou shinan) 革新 (kakushin) 萌芽 (houga) 系譜 (keifu)

Gramática que debes saber

Suru-verbs

発明する、発明した、発明しない

Passive Voice (Sare-ru)

この薬は1990年に発明された。

Noun Modifying Clauses

彼が発明した機械はとても高い。

Particles 'ni yotte' (by)

エジソンによって発明された。

Nominalization with 'koto' or 'no'

何かを発明することは難しい。

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Ejemplos por nivel

エジソンは電球を発明しました。

Edison invented the lightbulb.

Simple past tense 'shimashita' with object 'o'.

これは新しい発明です。

This is a new invention.

Noun 'hatsumei' used with the copula 'desu'.

誰が電話を発明しましたか？

Who invented the telephone?

Question form using 'dare ga' and 'ka'.

ベルが電話を発明しました。

Bell invented the telephone.

Identifying the subject with 'ga'.

発明はすごいです。

Inventions are amazing.

Abstract noun as the subject.

私は何かを発明したいです。

I want to invent something.

Desire form 'tai' added to 'hatsumei shi'.

日本にはたくさんの発明があります。

There are many inventions in Japan.

Using 'arimasu' for existence of inanimate objects.

これは役に立つ発明ですね。

This is a useful invention, isn't it?

Adjective 'yaku ni tatsu' modifying the noun 'hatsumei'.

この機械は100年前に発明されました。

This machine was invented 100 years ago.

Passive voice 'saremashita'.

彼は有名な発明家です。

He is a famous inventor.

Compound noun 'hatsumei-ka'.

インスタントラーメンは日本で発明されました。

Instant ramen was invented in Japan.

Passive voice with location particle 'de'.

世界で一番古い発明は何ですか？

What is the oldest invention in the world?

Superlative 'ichiban furui' modifying 'hatsumei'.

彼女は新しいアプリを発明しようとしています。

She is trying to invent a new app.

Volitional form + 'to shite iru' (trying to).

その発明はとても便利です。

That invention is very convenient.

Adverb 'toto' modifying 'benri'.

未来の発明について話しましょう。

Let's talk about future inventions.

Noun 'mirai' modifying 'hatsumei' with 'no'.

発明品を見に博物館へ行きました。

I went to the museum to see the inventions.

Compound noun 'hatsumei-hin'.

インターネットの発明は世界を大きく変えました。

The invention of the internet changed the world greatly.

Noun phrase as the subject.

彼は子供の頃から発明に興味を持っていました。

He has been interested in invention since he was a child.

Using 'kyoumi o motsu' (to have interest).

新しい技術を発明するのは簡単ではありません。

Inventing new technology is not easy.

Nominalizing the verb with 'no wa'.

それは偶然から生まれた発明でした。

That was an invention born from chance.

Relative clause 'umareta' modifying 'hatsumei'.

この発明がなければ、今の生活は不便だったでしょう。

Without this invention, modern life would have been inconvenient.

Conditional 'nakereba' and 'deshou' (guess/probability).

多くの発明が戦争のために使われてきました。

Many inventions have been used for war.

Passive voice in the 'te-kita' (continuing until now) form.

彼は自分の発明で特許を取りました。

He took out a patent for his invention.

Using 'tokkyo o toru' (to get a patent).

発明の天才と言えば、やはりエジソンですね。

Speaking of a genius of invention, it has to be Edison, right?

The 'to ieba' (speaking of) structure.

画期的な発明が社会の構造を根底から覆した。

A groundbreaking invention overturned the structure of society from its roots.

Advanced kanji and formal verb 'kutsugaesu'.

職務発明の対価を巡って裁判が行われた。

A trial was held regarding the compensation for an employee invention.

Legal term 'shokumu hatsumei' and structure 'o megutte'.

その発明は、既存の概念を打ち破るものだった。

That invention was something that shattered existing concepts.

Noun-modifying clause with 'mono'.

発明を実用化するためには、多額の資金が必要です。

In order to put an invention into practical use, a large amount of funding is necessary.

The 'tame ni wa' (in order to) structure.

日本は「発明大国」としての地位を築いてきた。

Japan has built its status as a 'great nation of invention'.

Compound 'hatsumei taikoku' and the 'to shite no' (as a) structure.

彼の発明は、皮肉にも環境破壊を加速させた。

Ironically, his invention accelerated environmental destruction.

Adverb 'hiniku ni mo' (ironically).

新しい発明には常にリスクが伴います。

New inventions are always accompanied by risks.

The verb 'tomunau' (to accompany/involve).

その発明の重要性は、後になってようやく認識された。

The importance of that invention was finally recognized only later.

The 'te youyaku' (finally after) structure.

発明の定義は、時代とともに変遷してきた。

The definition of invention has transitioned along with the times.

Formal word 'hensen' (transition).

真の発明とは、単なる改良ではなく、次元の異なる創造である。

True invention is not mere improvement, but creation on a different dimension.

Emphasis 'towa' and contrast 'dewa naku'.

知的財産権の保護は、発明の意欲を削がないために不可欠だ。

Protection of intellectual property rights is essential so as not to discourage the will to invent.

Negative 'nai tame ni' (so as not to).

その発明がもたらした倫理的課題は、未だ解決されていない。

The ethical issues brought about by that invention have yet to be resolved.

Relative clause 'motarashita' (brought about).

科学的な発見が、工学的な発明へと昇華される過程を追う。

We follow the process where scientific discoveries are sublimated into engineering inventions.

Passive/Potential 'shouka sareru'.

発明者の権利と公共の利益のバランスをどう保つべきか。

How should we maintain the balance between the rights of the inventor and the public interest?

The 'beki ka' (should) question form.

その発明は、偶然の産物というよりは、執念の結実であった。

That invention was less a product of chance than the fruit of obsession.

Comparison 'to iu yori wa' (rather than).

AIによる発明は、現行の法体系において誰に帰属するのか。

To whom does an invention by AI belong under the current legal system?

The verb 'kizoku suru' (to belong/be attributed to).

「伝統の発見」が「伝統の発明」へとすり替えられる危うさ。

The danger of the 'discovery of tradition' being surreptitiously replaced by the 'invention of tradition'.

Sociological terminology and the verb 'surikaeru'.

発明の萌芽は、日常の些細な違和感の中にこそ潜んでいる。

The seeds of invention lie hidden precisely within the trivial discomforts of daily life.

Metaphorical 'houga' (sprout/bud) and emphatic 'koso'.

技術的特異点を超えた先の発明は、もはや人間の理解を絶するだろう。

Inventions beyond the technological singularity will likely surpass human understanding.

The phrase 'rikai o zessuru' (beyond understanding).

発明という行為そのものが、人間の本質的な欲望を体現している。

The act of invention itself embodies an essential human desire.

The emphatic 'sonomono' (itself).

特許制度の形骸化が、真の意味での発明を阻害しているとの指摘がある。

There are points made that the hollowing out of the patent system is hindering invention in the true sense.

Formal term 'keigaika' (becoming a mere shell).

その発明がパラダイムシフトを引き起こす契機となった。

That invention served as the catalyst for a paradigm shift.

Katakana 'paradaimu shifuto' and formal 'keiki' (catalyst).

発明の歴史を紐解けば、権力闘争の系譜が見えてくる。

If one unravels the history of invention, a genealogy of power struggles emerges.

The verb 'himotoku' (to unravel/read) and 'keifu' (genealogy).

言語の発明こそが、人類最大のイノベーションであったと言えよう。

It could be said that the invention of language was mankind's greatest innovation.

The speculative/conclusive 'to ieyou'.

Sinónimos

考案創造開発新案創生

Antónimos

模倣発見

Colocaciones comunes

画期的な発明

発明を特許にする

発明の天才

〜によって発明される

世紀の発明

偶然の発明

発明品を展示する

発明の歴史

実用的な発明

発明を奨励する

Frases Comunes

発明は必要の母

— Necessity is the mother of invention. Used to say that difficult situations lead to new ideas.

「発明は必要の母」と言うが、困った時に良い案が出るものだ。

職務発明

— Employee invention. A legal term for inventions made during work.

職務発明の報酬について話し合う。

共同発明

— Joint invention. An invention made by multiple people.

彼らは共同発明者として登録された。

世紀の大発明

— The great invention of the century. Used for massive breakthroughs.

これは世紀の大発明になるだろう。

発明工夫展

— Invention and Idea Exhibition. A common school event in Japan.

発明工夫展で金賞を受賞した。

特許発明

— Patented invention. An invention that has been officially registered.

特許発明の実施権を譲渡する。

未発表の発明

— Unannounced invention. Something not yet shared with the public.

未発表の発明が盗まれた。

画期的な発明品

— Groundbreaking invention product. A physical item that is revolutionary.

その画期的な発明品は飛ぶように売れた。

発明の才

— Talent for invention. Innate ability to create new things.

彼には発明の才がある。

独創的な発明

— Original invention. Something highly creative and unique.

独創的な発明が求められている。

Se confunde a menudo con

発明 vs 発見 (hakken)

Discovery vs. Invention. You find a star (hakken), but you build a telescope (hatsumei).

発明 vs 開発 (kaihatsu)

Development vs. Invention. Invention is the first idea; development is the process of making it better or larger.

発明 vs 創造 (souzou)

Creation vs. Invention. Creation is for art or the universe; invention is for machines and tools.

Modismos y expresiones

"発明は必要の母"

— Necessity is the mother of invention. People invent things because they need to solve a problem.

不便だからこそ、新しい道具が生まれる。まさに発明は必要の母だ。

Proverb

"コロンブスの卵"

— Columbus's egg. Refers to an invention or idea that seems simple after someone else has done it.

その発明は、言われてみれば簡単だが、まさにコロンブスの卵だ。

Idiomatic

"車輪の再発明"

— Reinventing the wheel. Wasting time creating something that already exists.

既存の技術を使わずに、車輪の再発明をするのは無駄だ。

Business/Tech

"目から鱗が落ちる"

— Scales falling from one's eyes. Realizing something through a brilliant invention or idea.

彼の発明を見て、目から鱗が落ちた。

Idiomatic

"瓢箪から駒"

— A horse from a gourd. An unexpected invention or result from a joke or accident.

冗談で言ったことが、素晴らしい発明につながった。瓢箪から駒だ。

Idiomatic

"無から有を生む"

— To create something from nothing. Often used to describe the essence of invention.

発明とは、無から有を生む行為である。

Literary

"一世を風靡する"

— To take the world by storm. Used for inventions that become extremely popular.

その発明品は一世を風靡した。

Formal

"日の目を見る"

— To see the light of day. When an invention is finally completed or recognized.

長年の研究の末、ついに発明が日の目を見た。

Idiomatic

"金字塔を打ち立てる"

— To set a monumental achievement. Used for world-changing inventions.

彼は科学界に金字塔を打ち立てる発明をした。

Formal

"後の祭り"

— Too late. Used when someone tries to patent an invention after someone else already did.

先に特許を取られては、もう後の祭りだ。

Idiomatic

Fácil de confundir

発明 vs 発見 (hakken)

Both involve new things.

Hakken is for things that existed but were hidden. Hatsumei is for things that never existed until a human made them.

新種の魚を発見した。新しい網を発明した。

発明 vs 開発 (kaihatsu)

Both used in tech.

Hatsumei is the 'Eureka' moment. Kaihatsu is the long engineering process to make a product.

彼は新しい原理を発明した。会社はその原理を使って製品を開発した。

発明 vs 考案 (kouan)

Similar meaning of 'coming up with'.

Kouan is more for a 'design' or 'plan', often on a smaller or more practical scale than a full 'hatsumei'.

新しいロゴを考案した。

発明 vs 創作 (sousaku)

Both mean 'creation'.

Sousaku is for novels, music, or art. Hatsumei is for science and technology.

彼は物語を創作した。

発明 vs 製作 (seisaku)

Both involve making things.

Seisaku is the manufacturing or production process. Hatsumei is the original concept/invention.

ロボットを製作する工場。

Patrones de oraciones

[Person] は [Object] を発明しました。

私はロボットを発明しました。

[Object] は [Time] に発明されました。

電話は1876年に発明されました。

[Object] の発明は [Effect] をもたらした。

火薬の発明は戦争の形を変えた。

[Inventor] による [Invention] の特許。

トヨタによる新しいエンジンの発明。

発明の[Attribute]は[Opinion]。

発明の倫理的側面は無視できない。

[Invention] を [Concept] と捉える。

文字の発明を文明の夜明けと捉える。

〜を発明したことで知られている。

彼は電球を発明したことで知られている。

これは〜のための発明です。

これは掃除のための発明です。

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

発明 (hatsumei - invention)

発明家 (hatsumei-ka - inventor)

発明品 (hatsumei-hin - invented product)

職務発明 (shokumu-hatsumei - employee invention)

Verbos

発明する (hatsumei suru - to invent)

発明される (hatsumei sareru - to be invented)

Adjetivos

発明的な (hatsumei-teki na - inventive)

Relacionado

発見 (hakken - discovery)

開発 (kaihatsu - development)

特許 (tokkyo - patent)

技術 (gijutsu - technology)

工夫 (kufu - device/idea)

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Cómo usarlo

frequency

High in educational and technical contexts; Medium in general daily life.

Errores comunes

ニュートンは重力を発明した。 → ニュートンは重力を発見した。
Gravity existed before Newton; he discovered it (hakken), he didn't invent it (hatsumei).
彼は機械を発明る。 → 彼は機械を発明する。
'Hatsumei' is a noun that requires 'suru' to become a verb. You cannot conjugate it like a regular verb.
新しい小説を発明した。 → 新しい小説を書いた / 創作した。
'Hatsumei' is for technology/machines, not for literature or art.
電話はベルに発明された。 → 電話はベルによって発明された。
When using the passive voice for inventions, 'ni yotte' is the standard particle to indicate the creator.
発明の発見。 → 発明の過程 / 発明の歴史。
Using 'discovery of invention' is redundant and confusing. Use 'process' or 'history' instead.

Consejos

Suru Verb Usage

Remember that 'hatsumei' needs 'suru' to function as a verb. Without it, it's just a noun. For example, 'I invent' is 'hatsumei suru', not just 'hatsumei'.

Hatsumei vs Hakken

Always ask: 'Did this exist before humans?' If yes, use 'hakken' (discovery). If no, use 'hatsumei' (invention). This is the most common mistake.

Stroke Order

The kanji 発 has a specific stroke order. Pay attention to the top part (hatsugashira) to make your writing look natural.

Japanese Pride

Japan is proud of its inventions. Mentioning 'instant ramen' or 'LED' as Japanese inventions is a great conversation starter.

Passive Voice

In science reports, use 'hatsumei sareta' (was invented). It sounds much more professional than saying 'someone invented it'.

Compound Words

Learn 'hatsumei-ka' (inventor) and 'hatsumei-hin' (invention) together. They are used more often than the word 'hatsumei' alone in some contexts.

Context Clues

If you hear 'hatsumei', expect to hear about a 'kikai' (machine) or 'gijutsu' (technology) soon after.

Enthusiasm

When you call something a 'hatsumei' in a casual setting, use an enthusiastic tone to show you are impressed by the cleverness.

Patent Law

If you are studying for the JLPT N2 or N1, learn 'tokkyo' (patent) alongside 'hatsumei', as they often appear together in reading sections.

The Bright Idea

The kanji 明 (mei) means bright. Just like a lightbulb in a cartoon, an invention is a bright idea popping out (発) of your head.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of a 'Hats' (hatsu) that is 'Mei' (bright/clear). You wear a bright hat when you have a brilliant invention!

Asociación visual

Imagine a lightbulb (mei/bright) popping out (hatsu/emit) of a scientist's head.

Word Web

Science Technology Edison Patent Idea Machine Future Creation

Desafío

Write down three things in your room and research who 'hatsumei'ed them in Japanese.

Origen de la palabra

The word 'hatsumei' originated from classical Chinese. In its early usage, it meant to explain or clarify something obscure.

Significado original: To bring light to a hidden truth or to clarify a difficult concept.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Contexto cultural

Be careful not to attribute a 'discovery' (hakken) as an 'invention' (hatsumei), as it can sound scientifically illiterate.

In English, 'invention' is often associated with the lone genius (like Tesla). In Japan, it is often seen as a collaborative corporate effort.

Thomas Edison (often called the King of Invention in Japan) Momofuku Ando (Inventor of instant ramen) Sakichi Toyoda (Inventor of the automatic loom)

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

History Class

産業革命の発明
歴史を変えた発明
古代の発明
有名な発明家

Business/Legal

特許を出願する
職務発明規定
発明の所有権
ライセンス契約

Science Museum

発明の仕組み
体験型発明
発明の歴史展示
未来の発明コーナー

News/Tech Media

画期的な新発明
世界初の発明
期待される発明
発明の背景

Daily Life (Clever Hacks)

これ、いい発明だ！
便利な発明品
ちょっとした発明
天才的な発明

Inicios de conversación

"あなたが一番すごいと思う発明は何ですか？ (What do you think is the most amazing invention?)"

"もし何かを発明できるとしたら、何を作りたいですか？ (If you could invent something, what would you want to make?)"

"日本の発明で知っているものはありますか？ (Are there any Japanese inventions you know?)"

"インターネットは最高の発明だと思いますか？ (Do you think the internet is the best invention?)"

"最近、何か便利な発明品を買いましたか？ (Have you bought any useful inventions lately?)"

Temas para diario

今日、自分が「これがあれば便利なのに」と思った発明のアイデアを書いてください。 (Write about an invention idea you had today for something that would be convenient.)

歴史上の発明で、あなたの人生に一番影響を与えたものは何ですか？ (Which historical invention has influenced your life the most?)

未来の世界にはどんな発明があると思いますか？ (What kind of inventions do you think will exist in the future world?)

発明家になるために必要な能力は何だと思いますか？ (What skills do you think are necessary to become an inventor?)

「発明は必要の母」という言葉について、自分の経験を書いてください。 (Write about your experience regarding the phrase 'Necessity is the mother of invention'.)

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Technically yes, but it sounds very exaggerated. Usually, you'd say 'kangaeta' (thought of) or 'kaihatsu shita' (developed). Use 'hatsumei' only if it's a revolutionary way of cooking.

Yes, but 'kaihatsu' (development) is much more common for software. 'Hatsumei' might be used for a completely new algorithm that gets a patent.

'Hatsumei-ka' is an 'inventor' as a profession or title (like Edison). 'Hatsumei-sha' is the person who invented a specific thing, often used in legal documents.

It is 'Hatsumei wa hitsuyou no haha' (発明は必要の母). It's a direct translation of the English proverb and is well-understood.

No. For stories, use 'sousaku' (creation) or 'kaku' (write). 'Hatsumei' is strictly for technical or mechanical innovations.

It is neutral to formal. It's perfectly fine in daily conversation, but it's also the official word used in laws and science.

They are 'Sekai Sandai Hatsumei': the compass (rashinban), gunpowder (kayaku), and the printing press (pappan insatsu).

Yes, you can invent a weapon or something harmful. The word itself is neutral regarding the morality of the object.

Not really a direct slang, but 'kufu' (device/idea) or just 'atarashii no tsukutta' (made a new one) is used in casual settings.

Because an invention 'brings to light' (mei) a new idea that was previously 'emitted' (hatsu) from the mind.

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